3 avocado toasts in St. Louis we love

The search for an excellent avocado toast may seem simple, but it takes a very delicate balance of flavors and textures to procure a great one. The avocado should have the perfect amount of salt and acid, the bread should be sturdy but soft, and the toppings should be robust while allowing the avocado to shine. Here are three local options up to par.

Cinder House
An extra-thick slice of house-made focaccia with crispy edges and a pillowy center supports an abundant layer of lightly mashed avocado mixed with house-made pico de gallo. Crunchy roasted pecans, candied in whipped eggs and sugar and then tossed in cinnamon and nutmeg, are sprinkled on top. A handful of bright, citrusy micro-cilantro finishes this delectable dish. (Best enjoyed while lounging poolside at the Four Seasons hotel.)
999 N. Second St., St. Louis, 314.881.5759, cinderhousestl.com

Hello Juice & Smoothie
Freshly baked sourdough from Knead Bakehouse is topped with avocado, crushed red pepper flakes, salt and pepper, hemp hearts and a smattering of fresh cherry tomatoes, as well as sunflower and pumpkin seeds that add plenty of crunch. This toast was the inspiration for the list (and many homemade versions).
1000 S. Newstead Ave., St. Louis, 314.376.4135, hellojuiceandsmoothie.com

UKraft Cafe & Catering
This grab-and-go spot offers a variety of avocado toasts, but the caprese is top-notch. A perfectly chewy piece of multigrain bread serves as a hearty base for an avocado spread with everything bagel seasoning that’s topped with generous slices of local heirloom tomato, buffalo mozzarella, fresh basil, an over-medium, free-range egg, and a drizzle of house-made balsamic reduction.
701 Market St., Suite P1, St. Louis, 314.376.4352; 8182 Maryland Ave., Suite 103, Clayton, 314.757.7075, ukrafteats.com